Let me start by being 100 percent honest, I don't like Jamie Oliver. However, I watched the premiere of "Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution" with an open mind, that lasted about five minutes.
Oliver has a solid message about childhood obesity that needs to be heard. Unfortunately it is drowned out by his massive ego.
In season two of the Emmy winning show, Oliver is taking on the Los Angeles Unified School District over the food served in school cafeterias. When he approaches the school board with his ridiculous condescending tone, they naturally say no. He is then forced to do things on his own.
This involves him working with a local family owned burger restaurant and attending a school nutrition conference.
In each case his valid ideas are lost in a sea of self important grandstanding and douchebaggery. He tries to get the restaurant owner to change his menu, by insulting his family business and embarasses a speaker at the conference by belittling his presentation.
His d-bag tendencies are so over the top, the show has the opposite effect and makes you want to head for the nearest drive thru out of spite.
As a show it has a good message, however, it needs a different host because Oliver's ego is drowning it out.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
James Van Der Beek steals award show
James Van Der Beek was hilarious hosting last night's New Now Next Awards on Logo.
While the show was taken over by contestants from "Rupaul's Drag Race" and obscure musical performers, Van Der Beek was the highlight of the show and displayed some unexpected comedy skills.
His next move should be to guest on a successful comedy like "Parks and Recreation" or "Modern Family" and jumpstart his career.
My favorite moment features him, Busy Phillips and "Drag Race" competitor Shangela.
While the show was taken over by contestants from "Rupaul's Drag Race" and obscure musical performers, Van Der Beek was the highlight of the show and displayed some unexpected comedy skills.
His next move should be to guest on a successful comedy like "Parks and Recreation" or "Modern Family" and jumpstart his career.
My favorite moment features him, Busy Phillips and "Drag Race" competitor Shangela.
The first 14 minutes of HBO's 'Game of Thrones'!
I know for the fans of the books, this is *SCREAMING* worthy, but I was doing nothing else but clapping and squealing the whole time I was watching this....basically the first two chapters of the book.
Edge's stunning retirement
WWE superstar Edge appeared on Monday Night Raw last night to announce his sudden retirement.
Eight years ago Edge suffered broken neck which resulted in spinal surgery. Unfortunately, he is now felling the consequences of that operation.
He stated that he recently had been suffering from numbness in his arms and after more tests, doctors advised him that he would never be medically ready to compete, and he was forced to retire.
This is a complete surprise, as Edge has showed no signs that anything was wrong. As a matter of fact, at Wrestlemania 27 he was in great condition as he defended the World Heavyweight Championship.
As he spoke last night Edge's emotions were high and he teared up when the crowd began to chant "Thank you Edge." He was greeted backstge by fellow superstars, who hugged him and offered their goodbyes.
As a wrestling fan, Edge has always been one of my favorites, his retirement will leave a huge hole in the WWE roster. I have no doubt that he continue to stay active in the business, as someone with his wrestling knowledge, quickwit and personality won't stay off TV for long.
Eight years ago Edge suffered broken neck which resulted in spinal surgery. Unfortunately, he is now felling the consequences of that operation.
He stated that he recently had been suffering from numbness in his arms and after more tests, doctors advised him that he would never be medically ready to compete, and he was forced to retire.
This is a complete surprise, as Edge has showed no signs that anything was wrong. As a matter of fact, at Wrestlemania 27 he was in great condition as he defended the World Heavyweight Championship.
As he spoke last night Edge's emotions were high and he teared up when the crowd began to chant "Thank you Edge." He was greeted backstge by fellow superstars, who hugged him and offered their goodbyes.
As a wrestling fan, Edge has always been one of my favorites, his retirement will leave a huge hole in the WWE roster. I have no doubt that he continue to stay active in the business, as someone with his wrestling knowledge, quickwit and personality won't stay off TV for long.
Monday, April 11, 2011
TV Guide's Fan Favorite Awards issue out this Thursday!!
Make sure you check out this week's issue of TV Guide, which is on newsstands this thursday for all the results of their Fan Favorite Awards which they held online a couple months ago.
I know "Supernatural" fans have been anxiously awaiting this issue, having been told by the editor at Paley Fest last month that the series once again, won a few awards. And to no surprise, so have cult favorite TV series "The Big Bang Theory" and "Castle".
I know a few of these shots will definitely be the new pin ups on my wall for a while...
And here is a video of all the winners and the presentation of the awards!!
(GO SUPERNATURAL!!) ....just sayin'
Friday, April 8, 2011
I still love John Krasinski even though he's a Red Sox fan
When I saw this video, I fell off the couch laughing.
You see I'm a hardcore, serious Yankees fan, so this was too funny.
You see I'm a hardcore, serious Yankees fan, so this was too funny.
The most addictive game ever
There's an episode of "Star Trek: The Next Generation" called "The Game" where an alien captivates the crew with a puzzle game so it can take over the Enterprise. Everytime I play "Bejeweled 3" I think of that episode.Hardcore gamers talk about marathon "Call of Duty" sessions where they lose a weekend to the game. However, there is no game out there more addictive than "Bejeweled."
I don't if it's the simplicity of it or the hypnotic nature of the jewels, but there is no such thing as a quick game of "Bejeweled."
Playing is relatively simple and involves lining up the same jewels in rows of three or more. The more jewels in a row, the more specialty jewels created. Plus, when several rows are made to create combinations, the game can get exciting.
"Bejeweled 3" has added a few updates from the previous edition, including graphics and fun versions of the classic game, like poker and lightning (the speed version). These additions have given the game a new feel and help it fit in with more modern games.
The game continues to infinte levels and high scores, there's no beating the game. It simply continues until there are no more moves. Players don't have to be avid gamers to play and that's one of the most appealing things about it.
It one of those games that you can turn your brain off and just play. It's great after a long stressful day.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
'American Idol's' shocking elimination
In a mind-bottling turn of events, front runner Pia Toscano was eliminated from "American Idol" this week. Pause for Tim's tears.
After a fantastic performance of "River Deep, Mountain High" showed that she could sing uptempo songs, Pia seemed like a lock for next week and frankly the finals.
The fact that she's gone while Paul and Lauren are still competing is confounding. It's anybody's title now so, while it's sad that she's done, the show is more interesting and unpredictable.
After a fantastic performance of "River Deep, Mountain High" showed that she could sing uptempo songs, Pia seemed like a lock for next week and frankly the finals.
The fact that she's gone while Paul and Lauren are still competing is confounding. It's anybody's title now so, while it's sad that she's done, the show is more interesting and unpredictable.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
'Vampire Diaries': Joseph Morgan as Klaus is revealed!
There are no words for the emotions that I have feeling right now, except that this episode can't get onto my TV fast enough.
Here's one of the photos, and the rest you can find here: Vampiresite.net
'One Life to Live' takes on bullying, delivers great story
Soap operas get a bad rap for being melodramatic and fantastical, and that's absolutely true, however, they also often feature real groundbreaking stories that will do more for a cause than any celebrity endorsement will ever do.
As a matter of fact, they are usually the first TV shows to tackle sensitive social issues. This has been the case on "One Life to Live" this month with the bullying storyline featuring Jack Manning and Shane Morasco.
Jack is the privileged son of longtime favorites Todd and Blair, while Shane is the son of not rich, but very popular Gigi and Rex. Jack has been making Shane's life miserable with an increasingly diabolical campaign of harassment. So far, he has cyber bullied him, framed him for theft, and stolen his asthma inhaler causing Shane to have a dangerous attack.
Most recently Jack posted a naked video of Shane online, sending Shane to the breaking point. He became suicidal and headed to the school roof. The performance in this scene by Austin Williams (pictured below), who plays Shane, was heartbreaking. Williams made Shane's pain, loneliness and despair palpable and gave an Emmy worthy performance.
Bullying has become a hot topic lately and for "One Life to Live" to take the subject matter and unflinchingly show the consequences does more than 100 PSAs and Internet videos.
Soap opera parents are notoriously absent from their children's lives and that will also be explored in the storyline, as will Jack's reaction to what his actions did to Shane. He is unapologetically unremorseful at the moment, however that will change when he finds out about Shane's suicide attempt.
Young actors on daytime are often asked to portray stories well beyond their years. The outcome is hit or miss, depending on the skills of the actor, however Williams and Andrew Trischitta, who plays Jack, have been delivering honest depictions of an important story.
As a matter of fact, they are usually the first TV shows to tackle sensitive social issues. This has been the case on "One Life to Live" this month with the bullying storyline featuring Jack Manning and Shane Morasco.
Jack is the privileged son of longtime favorites Todd and Blair, while Shane is the son of not rich, but very popular Gigi and Rex. Jack has been making Shane's life miserable with an increasingly diabolical campaign of harassment. So far, he has cyber bullied him, framed him for theft, and stolen his asthma inhaler causing Shane to have a dangerous attack.
Most recently Jack posted a naked video of Shane online, sending Shane to the breaking point. He became suicidal and headed to the school roof. The performance in this scene by Austin Williams (pictured below), who plays Shane, was heartbreaking. Williams made Shane's pain, loneliness and despair palpable and gave an Emmy worthy performance.
Bullying has become a hot topic lately and for "One Life to Live" to take the subject matter and unflinchingly show the consequences does more than 100 PSAs and Internet videos.
Soap opera parents are notoriously absent from their children's lives and that will also be explored in the storyline, as will Jack's reaction to what his actions did to Shane. He is unapologetically unremorseful at the moment, however that will change when he finds out about Shane's suicide attempt.
Young actors on daytime are often asked to portray stories well beyond their years. The outcome is hit or miss, depending on the skills of the actor, however Williams and Andrew Trischitta, who plays Jack, have been delivering honest depictions of an important story.
Green Lantern takes over Wondercon
While plenty of great comic book news came out of Wondercon, this weekend was all about Green Lantern.
From the awesome four minutes of footage from the upcoming movie "Green Lantern" to the spectacular "Green Lantern: Emerald Knights" animated DVD to the comic book panel, I felt like I had joined the Lantern Corps.
Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment Geoff Johns explained why he thinks the character has become so popular in recent years.
"The types of stories you can tell with Green Lantern, because it's so different from every other hero that's out there cause it's really sci-fi," Johns said. "Green Lantern is much more than a superhero, it's a sci-fi epic."
The live action film stars Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan and Blake Lively as Carol Ferris. The first trailer didn't generate the expected buzz, however, the extended footage shown at Wondercon was amazing and got fans excited about the film again.
The clip featured Jordan finding a crashed Abin Sur and receiving his ring, he then says the oath (a totally geeked out moment,) and travels to Oa. The excitement in the room was ridiculous when Reynolds appeared on stage and led the crowd in the Green Lantern oath.
Reynolds was endlessly charming and the fans loved him.
Following the "Green Lantern" panel, there was a screening of the animated DVD release "Green Lantern: Emerald Knights." The film features stories of various Green Lanterns woven together as the Corps prepares to battle a powerful foe.
The cast includes the voices of Nathan Fillion, Elisabeth Moss, Jason Issacs, Kelly Hu and Wade Williams. The film is executive produced by Bruce Timm and features voice direction by Andrea Romano, who have worked on many of DC's most acclaimed animated projects.
The movie is an exciting, action-packed adventure that serves as a nice intro to the Green Lantern world for non-nerds. Fillion is perfectly cast as Jordan, showing the perfect blend of heroism and cockiness.
"Emerald Knights" hits stores on June 7, preceding the live action theatrical, which will be released June 17.
At conventions like Wondercon, it's all about buzz coming out of the show, and this year Green Lantern took the crown. While it was the biggest blockbuster at the convention, it also had the most to prove.
In the days since the clip hit the Internet, fan excitement has been re-energized and the film has regained ground against its competitors. Which is exactly what DC and Warner Bros. needed.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Mini-review: 'Love and Other Drugs'
Sometimes movies can sneak up on you.
Most times they are stinkers, say like "Sucker Punch."
But, I've had some great luck with movies lately and the streak continues with "Love and Other Drugs."
The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as a drug rep who meets and slowly falls for a woman, played by Anne Hathaway, who we learn has early onset Parkinson's disease.
At first it's just about sex for both. She goes wild because her condition will get so bad she'll be severely disabled. He's just a ladies man.
The first thing that stands out is the graphic sex and nudity. When the first sex scene happened I was a bit taken back by how frantic it was. And both stars are not shy about showing off. Both stars show off a lot, even co-star Josh Gad gets into the act.
One great thing about the film is the chemistry. Gyllenhaal and Hathway are magic together. I could watch them in every movie together. Gyllenhaal also has great chemistry with Gad, who plays his younger brother. Brothers will get how realistic their relationship is when they start fighting and hitting each other.
Most surprising is the film's director: Edward Zwick. You might have heard of him, he directed such dramas as "The Last Samurai" (one of Stephanie's favorites), "Blood Diamond," "The Siege" and "Courage Under Fire."
It's a funny, touching, romantic film that is worth a view. If nothing else, head to a Redbox and rent it for $1. Don't let the nudity put you off, you'll truly enjoy this film.
In my top list of 2010, "Love and Other Drugs" takes the No. 10 spot from "Morning Glory" and is right behind "The Fighter."
Most times they are stinkers, say like "Sucker Punch."
But, I've had some great luck with movies lately and the streak continues with "Love and Other Drugs."
The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as a drug rep who meets and slowly falls for a woman, played by Anne Hathaway, who we learn has early onset Parkinson's disease.
At first it's just about sex for both. She goes wild because her condition will get so bad she'll be severely disabled. He's just a ladies man.
The first thing that stands out is the graphic sex and nudity. When the first sex scene happened I was a bit taken back by how frantic it was. And both stars are not shy about showing off. Both stars show off a lot, even co-star Josh Gad gets into the act.
One great thing about the film is the chemistry. Gyllenhaal and Hathway are magic together. I could watch them in every movie together. Gyllenhaal also has great chemistry with Gad, who plays his younger brother. Brothers will get how realistic their relationship is when they start fighting and hitting each other.
Most surprising is the film's director: Edward Zwick. You might have heard of him, he directed such dramas as "The Last Samurai" (one of Stephanie's favorites), "Blood Diamond," "The Siege" and "Courage Under Fire."
It's a funny, touching, romantic film that is worth a view. If nothing else, head to a Redbox and rent it for $1. Don't let the nudity put you off, you'll truly enjoy this film.
In my top list of 2010, "Love and Other Drugs" takes the No. 10 spot from "Morning Glory" and is right behind "The Fighter."
Christian Slater returns to comedy in 'Breaking In'
FOX's new series "Breaking In" is a comedy tailor made for nerds. "Reaper's" Bret Harrison stars as Cameron Price, a brilliant computer hacker who scammed his way into a full ride at college. He is found out and blackmailed into working for Contra Security, a company full of eccentrics led byu Christian Slater as Oz. 
While "Breaking In" follows the normal office comedy cliches of the wacky workers and the over the top boss, it breaks out of the mold with the performances by its strong cast.Harrison is instantly likable in the lead role, and is sufficiently normal compared to the rest of his co-workers. Alphonso Macauley stands out as Cash, the strategic expert with an 161 IQ. He is also the office's resident prankster and nerd. He first appears on screen dressed as Han Solo and makes hilarious pop culture references throughout the episode.
However, the show is stolen by Slater's Oz. He is mysterious and eccentric and provides Slater to use comedic skills we haven't seen from him in a while. While he is the most experienced cast member, Slater has high praise for his funny co-stars."I definitely felt like they were setting the bar very, very high and if I didn't show up and be as prepared as I could possibly be then I would definitely fall behind with the timing and comedic genius that they posses," said Slater in a phone interview.
Though he is known for playing eccentric characters, Slater said that Oz is different from anyone he's ever played.
"Well, I do like the fact that he's a eight moves ahead kind of guy. You know, he pretty much knows what the outcomes are going to be right from the get-go, which I really appreciated and I like," he said.
"Breaking In" may be a office comedy with the usual characters, but it's hilarious and entertaining and features Christian Slater sitting in Captain Kirk's chair.
The premiere airs April 6 at 9:30 p.m. following "American Idol."
Monday, April 4, 2011
'The Hunger Games' casting news
Joining Jennifer Lawrence in the anticipated film "The Hunger Games", based on the best-selling book series by Suzanne Collins, they have finally found a Peeta and Gale. After months of discussion among the fans on who should play the two male leads of the series, the casting news this morning was greeted with cheers and groans. Liam Hemsworth, who starred opposite Miley Cyrus in the mediocre love story "The Last Song", has been cast as Gale Hawthorne, Katniss' long time friend and hunting partner. (Also the brother of Chris Hemsworth, who is playing Thor).
I am actually quite happy with this decision. I was worried that they were going to pick someone far too young for my favorite character in the series. And although there has been an uproar on all the social networks this morning about how Hemsworth does not have Gale's "dark features", I don't care about that. He has the perfect "look" and physique of Gale.
And to everyone's surprise, and my satisfaction, it was not Hunter Parrish cast as Peeta, like the majority of the fans wished. Josh Hutcherson, from Oscar nominated film "The Kids Are All Right", has been cast as Katniss' love interest and fellow District 12 tribute, Peeta Mellark. There has also been quite an uproar about this because Peeta has blonde hair, and obviously, Hutcherson does not. But it's a quick fix. They cast an actor of the perfect age and size for this role.
Personally, I am very happy with this casting. I was so fearful that this trilogy was going to be full of half rated young actors that don't know how to carry a great story on their shoulders. But instead of going with the popular choices, as many film franchises have done, they went with acting ability.
"The Hunger Games" is set to release next March.
Comic Con 2011 attendees be on the look out for sneak peeks this summer!
'Supernatural': First Look at the Western
I know I'm not the only one that squealed like a little girl when I saw these pictures this morning. Released to the press, (I saw them on TVline.com first) here is the first look at Sam and Dean in the Old West. Well...other than the five minute clip they showed us at the Paley Fest that is now all over the internet. However, this definitely is our first look at Sam Hennings as Samuel Colt.
I don't know about you, but the first thing that caught my eye...that damn vest that Jensen is wearing...
Yeah, deep down, I'm still a fangirl.
'Supernatural' news extravanganza
With The CW's endless hiatus almost over, it's time to once again talk about "Supernatural."
Michael Ausiello has a preview up of the highly anticipated western themed episode airing April 22. The story includes photos and story secrets about Sam meeting Samuel Colt.
On top of that, Warner Home Video announced today that it will be releasing the DVD set "Supernatural: The Anime Series" on July 26.
The series is the first ever live action program to be redone in Japanese anime. It follows the stories of "Supernatural's" first two seasons with prequels and spinoffs adding to the season's story arcs.
All 22 episodes feature Jared Padalecki as Sam and Jensen Ackles appears in select episodes as Dean. The series' stars also introduce each episode and appear in bonus content with show creator Eric Kripke.
The set will be available in Blu-Ray and Standard discs, ranging in price from $50-55.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Look at the best of the rest of Wrestlemania
With a mere few hours to go before Wrestlemania 27, we are only caught up through 10. So here are the best matches and moments from 11-26.
Wrestlemania 11 - Not the best PPV ever and I'd normally loath giving the thumbs up to a match involving a non-wrestler, but the Lawrence Taylor/Bam Bam Bigelow match was entertaining. And you have to give major kudos to Bigelow for not only carrying a football player, but also making it a decent match.
Wrestlemania 12 - One of my favorites. And you'll see a pattern developing here with the best matches. The Shawn Michaels/Bret Hart one hour Iron Man match, is not only one of the best Wrestlemania matches of all-time, but of all-time period.
Wrestlemania 13 - Many consider this the start of the "Attitude" era for the WWE. And the big match on this card to do it? Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin in a submission match. Many people will remember the visual of a bloody Austin locked in the sharpshooter. Great story, great wrestling and a double turn with Hart turning to a bad guy and Austin to a good guy. Genius.
Wrestlemania 14 - The big time "Attitude" era Wrestlemania. Meh undercard that was led by Austin vs. Michaels with Mike Tyson as the guest referee. Good match, but nothing special. Undertaker continued his streak by beating his brother Kane in a good match.
Wrestlemania 15 - The main event of The Rock vs. Austin, great match, might be everyone's favorite on this one. Me? I could care less for the entire card. I did enjoy Shane McMahon's match against X-Pac. This was also the PPV where boxer Butterbean destroyed Bart Gunn in 35 seconds. Ouch.
Wrestlemania 16 - Also known as Wrestlemania 2000. The main event of Triple H/Big Show/Rock/Mankind was meh extreme. Mostly because three tag teams stole the show with a ladder. The Hardy's, Edge and Christian and the Dudley Boyz put on one of the best tag matches of all-time. But, they put on an even better match down the line.
Wrestlemania 17 - Also known as Wrestlemania X-Seven. This might be the one of note for fans of this year's Wrestlemania as this was the first showdown between Undertaker and Triple H. Great, great match, but nothing can touch the rematch of the ladder match from the previous year. It's like all six men re watched the match and figured out what worked and what didn't and put on the most perfect match ever. Many people consider this the best Wrestlemania match of all-time. It's hard to argue against it.
Wrestlemania 18 - Overall, a great PPV with good matches from start to finish. We got Ric Flair vs. the Undertaker with an Arn Anderson run-in, Chris Jericho vs. HHH and The Rock vs. Hulk Hogan. Many fans really love that match. It's a great one because it was a dream match that people never thought they'd see. Great story and the crowd even started to like Hogan again, who was a bad guy at the time.
Wrestlemania 19 - So-so main events of Booker T vs. HHH (Booker should have won the belt) and Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle. Neither match really did anything for me. But, the undercard was good. One match between Jericho and Michaels was jaw droppingly amazing. Talk about a wrestling lesson! Wow. Also near the top on many people's lists.
Wrestlemania 20 - Oh boy, Stephanie has some harsh words for this one because of the Goldberg/Lesnar match, which was a dream match that ended up being a horrible nightmare. But, the two title matches were five star events. First Eddie Guerrero beat Angle in a great match. Then Chris Beniot beat Michaels and HHH in a triple threat match. And the end provided one of the most emotional endings to a PPV ever, with lifelong friends Guerrero and Beniot standing in the ring, both holding their titles after many years of working hard to get there. It is very sad to watch that clip now, with both men dead in tragic ways.
Wrestlemania 21 - Two things saved this otherwise dull PPV from being a total disaster. The Money in the Bank Ladder match, where six men fought for a title opportunity by using ladders in the most insane ways. And second, the Angle/Michaels match. That match was almost 30 minutes of wrestling goodness.
Wrestlemania 22 - zzzzzzzz. Sorry. Rey Mysterio winning the World Title was great...
Wrestlemania 23 - Pretty much the same. Nothing to get excited about. Michaels carried John Cena to a pretty good match, but with this kind of undercard it doesn't take much to stand out.
Wrestlemania 24 - Good seeing CM Punk win the Money in the Bank match. Overall, a few good matches. Edge had a great match with The Undertaker, but nothing can top Michaels vs. Flair in Flair's last match with the WWE. Man, talking about passing the torch.
Wrestlemania 25 - This one was all about Michaels vs. The Undertaker. You want to see a great match, watch this one. Both guys busting their butts for over 30 minutes to put on a wrestling clinic. I am positive that trainers show this match to students who want to be wrestlers. It's that good.
Wrestlemania 26 - Another case where a rematch can be even better. This time Michaels put his career on the line against the Undertaker and lost. And lost to a jumping Tombstone piledriver. Almost breathtaking in a way. Jericho and Edge also had a top notch match that shouldn't be forgotten. Hart and Vince McMahon had a street fight that people were waiting years to see.
Predictions for tonight? Do you honestly think HHH is going to beat Undertaker's streak? Heck no.
Wrestlemania 11 - Not the best PPV ever and I'd normally loath giving the thumbs up to a match involving a non-wrestler, but the Lawrence Taylor/Bam Bam Bigelow match was entertaining. And you have to give major kudos to Bigelow for not only carrying a football player, but also making it a decent match.
Wrestlemania 12 - One of my favorites. And you'll see a pattern developing here with the best matches. The Shawn Michaels/Bret Hart one hour Iron Man match, is not only one of the best Wrestlemania matches of all-time, but of all-time period.
Wrestlemania 13 - Many consider this the start of the "Attitude" era for the WWE. And the big match on this card to do it? Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin in a submission match. Many people will remember the visual of a bloody Austin locked in the sharpshooter. Great story, great wrestling and a double turn with Hart turning to a bad guy and Austin to a good guy. Genius.
Wrestlemania 14 - The big time "Attitude" era Wrestlemania. Meh undercard that was led by Austin vs. Michaels with Mike Tyson as the guest referee. Good match, but nothing special. Undertaker continued his streak by beating his brother Kane in a good match.
Wrestlemania 15 - The main event of The Rock vs. Austin, great match, might be everyone's favorite on this one. Me? I could care less for the entire card. I did enjoy Shane McMahon's match against X-Pac. This was also the PPV where boxer Butterbean destroyed Bart Gunn in 35 seconds. Ouch.
Wrestlemania 16 - Also known as Wrestlemania 2000. The main event of Triple H/Big Show/Rock/Mankind was meh extreme. Mostly because three tag teams stole the show with a ladder. The Hardy's, Edge and Christian and the Dudley Boyz put on one of the best tag matches of all-time. But, they put on an even better match down the line.
Wrestlemania 17 - Also known as Wrestlemania X-Seven. This might be the one of note for fans of this year's Wrestlemania as this was the first showdown between Undertaker and Triple H. Great, great match, but nothing can touch the rematch of the ladder match from the previous year. It's like all six men re watched the match and figured out what worked and what didn't and put on the most perfect match ever. Many people consider this the best Wrestlemania match of all-time. It's hard to argue against it.
Wrestlemania 18 - Overall, a great PPV with good matches from start to finish. We got Ric Flair vs. the Undertaker with an Arn Anderson run-in, Chris Jericho vs. HHH and The Rock vs. Hulk Hogan. Many fans really love that match. It's a great one because it was a dream match that people never thought they'd see. Great story and the crowd even started to like Hogan again, who was a bad guy at the time.
Wrestlemania 19 - So-so main events of Booker T vs. HHH (Booker should have won the belt) and Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle. Neither match really did anything for me. But, the undercard was good. One match between Jericho and Michaels was jaw droppingly amazing. Talk about a wrestling lesson! Wow. Also near the top on many people's lists.
Wrestlemania 20 - Oh boy, Stephanie has some harsh words for this one because of the Goldberg/Lesnar match, which was a dream match that ended up being a horrible nightmare. But, the two title matches were five star events. First Eddie Guerrero beat Angle in a great match. Then Chris Beniot beat Michaels and HHH in a triple threat match. And the end provided one of the most emotional endings to a PPV ever, with lifelong friends Guerrero and Beniot standing in the ring, both holding their titles after many years of working hard to get there. It is very sad to watch that clip now, with both men dead in tragic ways.
Wrestlemania 21 - Two things saved this otherwise dull PPV from being a total disaster. The Money in the Bank Ladder match, where six men fought for a title opportunity by using ladders in the most insane ways. And second, the Angle/Michaels match. That match was almost 30 minutes of wrestling goodness.
Wrestlemania 22 - zzzzzzzz. Sorry. Rey Mysterio winning the World Title was great...
Wrestlemania 23 - Pretty much the same. Nothing to get excited about. Michaels carried John Cena to a pretty good match, but with this kind of undercard it doesn't take much to stand out.
Wrestlemania 24 - Good seeing CM Punk win the Money in the Bank match. Overall, a few good matches. Edge had a great match with The Undertaker, but nothing can top Michaels vs. Flair in Flair's last match with the WWE. Man, talking about passing the torch.
Wrestlemania 25 - This one was all about Michaels vs. The Undertaker. You want to see a great match, watch this one. Both guys busting their butts for over 30 minutes to put on a wrestling clinic. I am positive that trainers show this match to students who want to be wrestlers. It's that good.
Wrestlemania 26 - Another case where a rematch can be even better. This time Michaels put his career on the line against the Undertaker and lost. And lost to a jumping Tombstone piledriver. Almost breathtaking in a way. Jericho and Edge also had a top notch match that shouldn't be forgotten. Hart and Vince McMahon had a street fight that people were waiting years to see.
Predictions for tonight? Do you honestly think HHH is going to beat Undertaker's streak? Heck no.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Look back at Wrestlemania VI through X
The sixth Wrestlemania is one of the handful where people can really only remember one match from.
This, of course, being the main event of Hulk Hogan vs. The Ultimate Warrior. Both very popular, at the time, and both good guys.
What made this interesting was Warrior was the Intercontinental Champion at the time, so it was champion vs. champion. Each man had his own rabid fan base and at the time it was like trying to pick Batman vs. Superman.
Once again the torch was passed and the Warrior won. At the time it was a big deal, but Warrior's championship run was almost forgettable. Do you even remember who beat him for the title? Sgt. Slaughter in case you were wondering.
Looking back at Wrestlemania VI, the undercard is a bit underwhelming. Jim Duggan vs. Dino Bravo? Barbarian vs. Tito Santana? A bit boring.
Wrestlemania 7 was back to the same formula of Hogan returning to save the day, this time against American turncoat Slaughter.
Good build up to the match and in the end it wasn't half bad for a Hogan match.
It's also known as the Wrestlemania debut and start of the streak for the Undertaker.
The card also had some great wrestlers on it including the Road Warriors, Kerry Von Erich and Japanese wrestlers Tenryu and Kitao.
Nothing lifechanging stands out from the rest of the other Wrestlemanias.
Wrestlemania 8, on the other hand, was memorable. Maybe not for all of the best reasons.
Months before at the Royal Rumble, Ric Flair won the championship by eliminating Hogan. You'd think that they would build toward having those two headline Wrestlemania. After all, they were the two biggest wrestlers of all-time at that time.
Perfect, right?
Nope.
They split them up into two separate matches. Flair fought Savage, in a very good match. Hogan fought Sid Justice in a God awful match. It was so horrible it couldn't even have a proper end. There was an awkward DQ that made no sense and then Papa Shango came out for some unknown reason. Yes, it did bring Warrior back, but wow it was obviously a stinker.
The undercard was mostly fantastic though. Shawn Michaels, who had just turned into a bad guy and went solo, took on Santana. Great match that showed Michaels could be a future World Champion.
Bret Hart also burst onto the solo scene by defeating Roddy Piper for the Intercontinental Championship. Probably one of Piper's greatest performances as a wrestler.
And the Undertaker continued his streak by defeating Jake "The Snake" Roberts.
If Wrestlemania 8 had some good and bad moments, Wrestlemania 9 set out to be different.
Just too bad it was different alright. Maybe one of the worst Wrestlemanias of all-time.
First it was at Caesar's Palace, outside in Las Vegas. So they decided to do a toga theme. Yes, they put the greatest announcer of all-time, Jim Ross, in a toga. That alone makes it horrible.
The matches didn't help. There was two DQ and one count out endings. For the Super Bowl of wrestling, matches need pins or submissions, not lame finishes.
Undertaker's streak always has an asterisk because of his DQ win over The Giant Gonzales. Just Google that one.
Even The Steiner Brothers couldn't save the PPV. Lex Lugar fought Mr. Perfect in a decent match, but lumped together with the rest it was forgotten.
But, Hogan's ego tried. First he wrestled in a horrible tag team match, then after Bret Hart lost the championship to Yokozuna, he came out, challenged Yoko and then won the title.
Yokozuna held the title for a matter of minutes.
I remember, even then, thinking it was lame. Years later it still is.
Could the tenth anniversary of Wrestlemania be any different?
Overall? Heck yeah.
Two matches alone, even to this day, are considered classics.
The opening match between brothers Owen and Bret Hart was amazing. Twenty minutes of "this is how it should be done" wrestling. What is sad is that everyone thought Owen was headed to an eventual World Championship run.
The other match is one of the greatest ladder matches of all-time between Michaels and Razor Ramon. People watched that match and were amazed at what could be done in the ring with that ladder.
Bret Hart may have lost to his brother early on, but ended the evening on a good note by winning the World Title from Yokozuna. Hart proved he was the best in the business by wrestling more than 30 minutes in two different matches that night.
Overall some good matches, but nothing comes close to touching the Michaels/Ramon ladder match as the best match of this group of Wrestlemanias.
This, of course, being the main event of Hulk Hogan vs. The Ultimate Warrior. Both very popular, at the time, and both good guys.
What made this interesting was Warrior was the Intercontinental Champion at the time, so it was champion vs. champion. Each man had his own rabid fan base and at the time it was like trying to pick Batman vs. Superman.
Once again the torch was passed and the Warrior won. At the time it was a big deal, but Warrior's championship run was almost forgettable. Do you even remember who beat him for the title? Sgt. Slaughter in case you were wondering.
Looking back at Wrestlemania VI, the undercard is a bit underwhelming. Jim Duggan vs. Dino Bravo? Barbarian vs. Tito Santana? A bit boring.
Wrestlemania 7 was back to the same formula of Hogan returning to save the day, this time against American turncoat Slaughter.
Good build up to the match and in the end it wasn't half bad for a Hogan match.
It's also known as the Wrestlemania debut and start of the streak for the Undertaker.
The card also had some great wrestlers on it including the Road Warriors, Kerry Von Erich and Japanese wrestlers Tenryu and Kitao.
Nothing lifechanging stands out from the rest of the other Wrestlemanias.
Wrestlemania 8, on the other hand, was memorable. Maybe not for all of the best reasons.
Months before at the Royal Rumble, Ric Flair won the championship by eliminating Hogan. You'd think that they would build toward having those two headline Wrestlemania. After all, they were the two biggest wrestlers of all-time at that time.
Perfect, right?
Nope.
They split them up into two separate matches. Flair fought Savage, in a very good match. Hogan fought Sid Justice in a God awful match. It was so horrible it couldn't even have a proper end. There was an awkward DQ that made no sense and then Papa Shango came out for some unknown reason. Yes, it did bring Warrior back, but wow it was obviously a stinker.
The undercard was mostly fantastic though. Shawn Michaels, who had just turned into a bad guy and went solo, took on Santana. Great match that showed Michaels could be a future World Champion.
Bret Hart also burst onto the solo scene by defeating Roddy Piper for the Intercontinental Championship. Probably one of Piper's greatest performances as a wrestler.
And the Undertaker continued his streak by defeating Jake "The Snake" Roberts.
If Wrestlemania 8 had some good and bad moments, Wrestlemania 9 set out to be different.
Just too bad it was different alright. Maybe one of the worst Wrestlemanias of all-time.
First it was at Caesar's Palace, outside in Las Vegas. So they decided to do a toga theme. Yes, they put the greatest announcer of all-time, Jim Ross, in a toga. That alone makes it horrible.
The matches didn't help. There was two DQ and one count out endings. For the Super Bowl of wrestling, matches need pins or submissions, not lame finishes.
Undertaker's streak always has an asterisk because of his DQ win over The Giant Gonzales. Just Google that one.
Even The Steiner Brothers couldn't save the PPV. Lex Lugar fought Mr. Perfect in a decent match, but lumped together with the rest it was forgotten.
But, Hogan's ego tried. First he wrestled in a horrible tag team match, then after Bret Hart lost the championship to Yokozuna, he came out, challenged Yoko and then won the title.
Yokozuna held the title for a matter of minutes.
I remember, even then, thinking it was lame. Years later it still is.
Could the tenth anniversary of Wrestlemania be any different?
Overall? Heck yeah.
Two matches alone, even to this day, are considered classics.
The opening match between brothers Owen and Bret Hart was amazing. Twenty minutes of "this is how it should be done" wrestling. What is sad is that everyone thought Owen was headed to an eventual World Championship run.
The other match is one of the greatest ladder matches of all-time between Michaels and Razor Ramon. People watched that match and were amazed at what could be done in the ring with that ladder.
Bret Hart may have lost to his brother early on, but ended the evening on a good note by winning the World Title from Yokozuna. Hart proved he was the best in the business by wrestling more than 30 minutes in two different matches that night.
Overall some good matches, but nothing comes close to touching the Michaels/Ramon ladder match as the best match of this group of Wrestlemanias.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Look back at Wrestlemania I through V
Wrestlemania 27 is just a few days away and while Stephanie is at Wonder-Con, I'm going to take a trip down memory lane looking at the past 26 Wrestlemanias: the good, the bad and the oh-my-God!
The first Wrestlemania took place in 1985 and was an ambitious experience at the time. Nothing had ever been done like it before, so a good number of celebrities were brought in to add some star power to the mix.
Everyone remembers Muhammad Ali, Cyndi Lauper and Liberace holding court, but it was a celebrity in the main event that made it memorable. Hulk Hogan and Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff.
With an undercard that was somewhat limited, the main event turned out to be the best match of the card.
But, I'll always remember the 23 second squash match between King Kong Bundy and Special Delivery Jones. I remember as a kid being amazed at how scary and awesome Bundy was. And the WWF knew that as well which led nicely into the very next year.
If the first Wrestlemania was ambitious for its time, then Wrestlemania II was the biggest thing to happen. It's the first Pay Per view the WWF produced and took place in three different venues (something, I think, they haven't tried since).
Bundy challenged Hogan for the title inside the ugly giant blue steel cage, while Mr. T fought Piper in a boxing match. Both of these matches are almost forgotten in the long history of great Wrestemania matches.
Two of the more memorable matches were the Macho Man/George "The Animal" Steele grudge match (Steele was in love with Macho's valet Miss Elizabeth) and the 20-man (wrestler and NFL pro) battle royal. The battle royal is especially of note because it really got people to notice future world champion Bret "The Hitman" Hart as a single's competitor (he was in the tag team the Hart Foundation at the time).
Wrestlemania III is entering the era of what I call "serious business."
The main event was something everyone, everyone wanted to see: Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant. The buildup to the match was great because we as viewers loved Hogan, but thought there was no possible way he could slam the giant. Which just made for great television when he eventually did. If YouTube were around then, the clip of the slam heard round the world would have been rewatched like crazy.
Yes, there was a mixed midget tag team match thrown in there and yes it was bad.
But, Wrestlemania III also gave us one of the best matches of all time; Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Macho Man Randy Savage. To this day people still consider it one of the best, pure wrestling matches in history.
Wrestlmania IV was great for being able to pass the torch to someone else besides Hogan. For years he remained the champion and always won.
Building up to the event, he actually lost. In a controversy Andre beat him but the title was made vacant. So a tournament was to be held to crown a new champion.
Of course, everyone knew that Hogan would just win it.
Then something interesting happened. He lost in the quarterfinals! Shocking at the time. It was literally like the death of a beloved character on your favorite television show. What was going to happen? Who would we root for?
Savage of course. Savage burned through the tournament and eventually beat "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase in the finals to become the new champion.
Torch effectively passed.
It's just too bad they went back to the well of having a former friend of Hogan turn on him.
Wrestlemania V, other than the lame main event (Hogan obviously won his title back), was surprisingly full of pretty darn good matches. Just look at the talent in the show: Shawn Michaels, Rick Rude, Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard, Mr. Perfect and the Red Rooster.
Out of the first five Wrestlemanias, the Savage/Steamboat match wins hands down as the best of the bunch. Picking a worst match is a little harder since a lot of the early ones had a lot of squash matches and a few jobbers thrown in.
The next batch of Wrestlemanias start to get even better with matches that redefined the "sport" of wrestling.
The first Wrestlemania took place in 1985 and was an ambitious experience at the time. Nothing had ever been done like it before, so a good number of celebrities were brought in to add some star power to the mix.
Everyone remembers Muhammad Ali, Cyndi Lauper and Liberace holding court, but it was a celebrity in the main event that made it memorable. Hulk Hogan and Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff.
With an undercard that was somewhat limited, the main event turned out to be the best match of the card.
But, I'll always remember the 23 second squash match between King Kong Bundy and Special Delivery Jones. I remember as a kid being amazed at how scary and awesome Bundy was. And the WWF knew that as well which led nicely into the very next year.
If the first Wrestlemania was ambitious for its time, then Wrestlemania II was the biggest thing to happen. It's the first Pay Per view the WWF produced and took place in three different venues (something, I think, they haven't tried since).
Bundy challenged Hogan for the title inside the ugly giant blue steel cage, while Mr. T fought Piper in a boxing match. Both of these matches are almost forgotten in the long history of great Wrestemania matches.
Two of the more memorable matches were the Macho Man/George "The Animal" Steele grudge match (Steele was in love with Macho's valet Miss Elizabeth) and the 20-man (wrestler and NFL pro) battle royal. The battle royal is especially of note because it really got people to notice future world champion Bret "The Hitman" Hart as a single's competitor (he was in the tag team the Hart Foundation at the time).
Wrestlemania III is entering the era of what I call "serious business."
The main event was something everyone, everyone wanted to see: Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant. The buildup to the match was great because we as viewers loved Hogan, but thought there was no possible way he could slam the giant. Which just made for great television when he eventually did. If YouTube were around then, the clip of the slam heard round the world would have been rewatched like crazy.
Yes, there was a mixed midget tag team match thrown in there and yes it was bad.
But, Wrestlemania III also gave us one of the best matches of all time; Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Macho Man Randy Savage. To this day people still consider it one of the best, pure wrestling matches in history.
Wrestlmania IV was great for being able to pass the torch to someone else besides Hogan. For years he remained the champion and always won.
Building up to the event, he actually lost. In a controversy Andre beat him but the title was made vacant. So a tournament was to be held to crown a new champion.
Of course, everyone knew that Hogan would just win it.
Then something interesting happened. He lost in the quarterfinals! Shocking at the time. It was literally like the death of a beloved character on your favorite television show. What was going to happen? Who would we root for?
Savage of course. Savage burned through the tournament and eventually beat "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase in the finals to become the new champion.
Torch effectively passed.
It's just too bad they went back to the well of having a former friend of Hogan turn on him.
Wrestlemania V, other than the lame main event (Hogan obviously won his title back), was surprisingly full of pretty darn good matches. Just look at the talent in the show: Shawn Michaels, Rick Rude, Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard, Mr. Perfect and the Red Rooster.
Out of the first five Wrestlemanias, the Savage/Steamboat match wins hands down as the best of the bunch. Picking a worst match is a little harder since a lot of the early ones had a lot of squash matches and a few jobbers thrown in.
The next batch of Wrestlemanias start to get even better with matches that redefined the "sport" of wrestling.
WonderCon 2011: Stephanie gets a taste of Westeros!
Stephane is attending WonderCon this weekend, and just minutes ago, got to sit on the Iron Throne from "Games of Thrones", HBO's new fantasy series that premieres this month.
To say that I'm a little jealous is an understatement.
If you are at WonderCon this weekend, don't miss out!!!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
John Cena is having a great week
Editor's note: I would normally loath referring to a TMZ story, but it's a good one.
Man, less than a week before Wrestlemania and is John Cena having the best week ever or what?
TMZ reports that Cena is inviting 30 sick kids from the Make a Wish Foundation to Wrestlemania. Complete with tickets, meet and greets and a party hosted by himself afterwards.
Not only that, but this puts him over the 300 wishes granted milestone. Apparently only a handful of other celebrities can say they've done that: drivers Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Hulk Hogan.
Say what you will about the Cena character on television, he is doing an amazing thing each and every time he makes a dream come true for a sick child. And he's more popular and busier than certain Food Network chefs.
Now that I've brought it up, let's talk about the Cena character for a moment. He gets a lot of heat from older fans. They hate him. I'm talking like Hulk Hogan joining the N.W.O. kind of hate.
I just don't get it. This man, both the real man and the character, have been carrying the WWE on his shoulders for years ever since the Rock and Steve Austin left. Triple H and the Undertaker might disagree with that statement, but it's true. Just look at the T-shirt sales.
Need proof? Just YouTube the reaction video of when Cena made his big return years ago at the Royal Rumble. The crowd at Madison Square Garden lost their minds when he came out. Nowadays those kinds of reactions are few and far between.
Need more proof? How about that career making (career defining?) promo he did with the Rock this past week?
I don't watch wrestling as often as I used to, but I still know a great promo when I see one. And this was top 10 material.
I don't see him turning into a bad guy because of this. This is more of a passing of the torch kind of moment.
Makes me wonder how the WWE will top this "feud" at Wrestlemania.
Man, less than a week before Wrestlemania and is John Cena having the best week ever or what?
TMZ reports that Cena is inviting 30 sick kids from the Make a Wish Foundation to Wrestlemania. Complete with tickets, meet and greets and a party hosted by himself afterwards.
Not only that, but this puts him over the 300 wishes granted milestone. Apparently only a handful of other celebrities can say they've done that: drivers Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Hulk Hogan.
Say what you will about the Cena character on television, he is doing an amazing thing each and every time he makes a dream come true for a sick child. And he's more popular and busier than certain Food Network chefs.
Now that I've brought it up, let's talk about the Cena character for a moment. He gets a lot of heat from older fans. They hate him. I'm talking like Hulk Hogan joining the N.W.O. kind of hate.
I just don't get it. This man, both the real man and the character, have been carrying the WWE on his shoulders for years ever since the Rock and Steve Austin left. Triple H and the Undertaker might disagree with that statement, but it's true. Just look at the T-shirt sales.
Need proof? Just YouTube the reaction video of when Cena made his big return years ago at the Royal Rumble. The crowd at Madison Square Garden lost their minds when he came out. Nowadays those kinds of reactions are few and far between.
Need more proof? How about that career making (career defining?) promo he did with the Rock this past week?
I don't watch wrestling as often as I used to, but I still know a great promo when I see one. And this was top 10 material.
I don't see him turning into a bad guy because of this. This is more of a passing of the torch kind of moment.
Makes me wonder how the WWE will top this "feud" at Wrestlemania.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Let me tell you something BROTHA!
"Wrestlemania" is less than a week away so I thought some blogs about wrestling would be a clever thing.
Especially considering it's not Stephanie who is writing them.
Other than "Wrestlemania," WWE also has something else big out this week: "WWE All Stars."
The new video game has the stars of today taking on the biggest stars of yesterday.
Yes, there are current stars like Rey Mysterio, Sheamus and Kofi Kingston alongside classics like Ricky Steamboat, Andre the Giant and The Ultimate Warrior.
It's just too bad the end result couldn't live up to the dream of what could have been.
Kind of like when WWE bought WCW 10 years ago (March 23 to be exact, nerdy!).
I played one version of the demo on the Playstation network and a different one on the XBox 360 at Best Buy.
Both were very "meh."
Stephanie and I both got a first look at this game back at E3 and even then we had some issues.
The first is the size of the characters. Each one looks like they've been on super steroids for years. Even little Rey Mysterio looks like a bodybuilder. And for a business that's always been troubled by talk of steroids... not the best idea to do.
Controls are basic enough, two sets of attacks and two sets of grapples. Nothing complex. But, that also means not a lot of variety.
The actions, much like the muscles, are also extremely exaggerated. For example, when Mysterio flings an opponent around, the other guy flies high into the air and spins around like crazy.
One side of the coin would say that's a cool thing. The other side is just reminded of this.
Overall, save your money. Don't even Redbox it.
Rent the last "Smackdown vs. Raw" game.
Especially considering it's not Stephanie who is writing them.
Other than "Wrestlemania," WWE also has something else big out this week: "WWE All Stars."
The new video game has the stars of today taking on the biggest stars of yesterday.
Yes, there are current stars like Rey Mysterio, Sheamus and Kofi Kingston alongside classics like Ricky Steamboat, Andre the Giant and The Ultimate Warrior.
It's just too bad the end result couldn't live up to the dream of what could have been.
Kind of like when WWE bought WCW 10 years ago (March 23 to be exact, nerdy!).
I played one version of the demo on the Playstation network and a different one on the XBox 360 at Best Buy.
Both were very "meh."
Stephanie and I both got a first look at this game back at E3 and even then we had some issues.
The first is the size of the characters. Each one looks like they've been on super steroids for years. Even little Rey Mysterio looks like a bodybuilder. And for a business that's always been troubled by talk of steroids... not the best idea to do.
Controls are basic enough, two sets of attacks and two sets of grapples. Nothing complex. But, that also means not a lot of variety.
The actions, much like the muscles, are also extremely exaggerated. For example, when Mysterio flings an opponent around, the other guy flies high into the air and spins around like crazy.
One side of the coin would say that's a cool thing. The other side is just reminded of this.
Overall, save your money. Don't even Redbox it.
Rent the last "Smackdown vs. Raw" game.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Farley Granger, star of Hitchcock classic, dies
Farley Granger, the star of Alfred Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train," died March 27 at the age of 85 from natural causes. Granger worked extensively in television and films in the '50s, '60s and '70s, however, his most famous role was in "Strangers on a Train." It is a classic that features Granger and Robert Walker as two men who meet on a train and seemingly devise a murder plot. The film is one Hitchcock's best and is a study in suspense.
Monday, March 28, 2011
FOX renews 'Fringe,' fans of good TV celebrate
Yes, this is a lighthearted, yet exciting parody of Stephanie's post. She's cool with it.
Plus, it's her birthday! Happy 23rd birthday Stephanie!
Onto the show...
In mind-bottling crazy news, FOX has renewed the critically acclaimed drama "Fringe" for a fourth season. The show follows an FBI team that investigates strange cases like teleportation, mind control and other dimensions.
The show is bolstered by a star-making performance by John Noble as Walter Bishop and has really just been hitting it out of the park with his crazy performances. Bonus points for playing the other dimension Bishop known as "Walternate."
This news is surprising since FOX moved the show to Friday, which is considered the "death slot." Remember it "Firefly" fans?
This gives the show a little more breathing room and the best news that it doesn't have to finish up it's battle of the two Earths storyline (right away.) This, in fact, might be just what the show needs to turn into the next "X-Files."
See, when a network actually cares about a show and are willing to give it a chance great things can happen.
On a personal note, this renewal marks the last one I needed to get all of my favorite shows coming back next year! Awesome.
Plus, it's her birthday! Happy 23rd birthday Stephanie!
Onto the show...
In mind-bottling crazy news, FOX has renewed the critically acclaimed drama "Fringe" for a fourth season. The show follows an FBI team that investigates strange cases like teleportation, mind control and other dimensions.
The show is bolstered by a star-making performance by John Noble as Walter Bishop and has really just been hitting it out of the park with his crazy performances. Bonus points for playing the other dimension Bishop known as "Walternate."
This news is surprising since FOX moved the show to Friday, which is considered the "death slot." Remember it "Firefly" fans?
This gives the show a little more breathing room and the best news that it doesn't have to finish up it's battle of the two Earths storyline (right away.) This, in fact, might be just what the show needs to turn into the next "X-Files."
See, when a network actually cares about a show and are willing to give it a chance great things can happen.
On a personal note, this renewal marks the last one I needed to get all of my favorite shows coming back next year! Awesome.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
FX cancels 'Lights Out,' fans of good TV suffer
In mind-bottling crazy news, FX has canceled the critically acclaimed drama "Lights Out." The show follows the attempted comeback of "Lights" Leary, a former heavyweight boxing champion, as he deals with complicated family drama and tries to figure out who he is away from the ring.
The show is bolstered by a star-making performance by Holt McCallany as Lights and was really just starting to hit its stride.
This news is surprising since FX is the kind of network that usually takes a chance on shows like this.
The show's producers should be on the phone right now with Starz, HBO and Showtime, because it would be a perfect fit for any of their networks.
As for McCallany, his charm, build, good looks and acting chops make him perfect for any number of superhero movies currently in production. He is someone who should be wearing a cool costume and flying through the air.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Elizabeth Taylor 1932-2011: The loss of a legend
Icon. Legend. Movie Star.These words are thrown around Hollywood a lot, but Dame Elizabeth Taylor was all of these and more. The term movie star was created for her. She was at one point the most popular, highest paid and revered actress in the world.
The legendary actress passed away March 23 at the age of 79 from congestive heart failure and Hollywood seems a little less glamorous because of the loss.
Her first big break came when she was 12 in “National Velvet.” That film led to appearances in “Little Women,” “Father of the Bride” and “A Place in the Sun” with frequent co-star Montgomery Clift.
It was around this time that she married her first husband Nicky Hilton. The turbulent marriage only lasted eight months, but it was the beginning of the press’ fascination with Taylor.
Following the rave reviews she received for “A Place in the Sun,” it was few years and several lackluster roles before MGM gave her a part she could shine in.
It was during this time that she married her second husband Michael Wilding, who she was with for five years before divorcing him and marrying Mike Todd.
Unfortunately, she and Todd were only together for a year when he died in a plane crash.
This was also when her career picked up steam with Taylor starring alongside James Dean and Rock Hudson in “Giant” and once again teaming with Clift in “Raintree County” for which she received her first Oscar nomination.Her follow up performance as Maggie the Cat in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” earned her another Academy Award nomination and solidified her as the biggest star in the world.
She also continued to sell newspapers when Eddie Fisher left Debbie Reynolds to marry her. Though her personal life overshadowed her career at times, it was impossible for the public to deny her talent as she won the Oscar for Best Actress in 1961 for “Butterfield 8.”
In the film, she met rumors head on as she tore up the screen as a promiscuous and defiant model. Watching the film now, the dialogue doesn’t feel fake, it sounds like Taylor is talking about herself and not a fictional character.
When she was paid $1 million to make “Cleopatra” she became the highest paid actress working in Hollywood. At the time, the film was the most expensive ever made, unfortunately, audiences stayed away and it is considered one of the biggest financial flops of all time.
However, it was during the filming of “Cleopatra” that Taylor met Richard Burton. She and Burton began a torrid affair, which was quite scandalous since they were both married to other people at the time. Public backlash of the affair is often blamed for the film’s poor performance.
While the film may have performed poorly in its day, in recent years Taylor’s version of Cleopatra only heightened her legend, with a doll created in her likeness from the movie.
Burton and Taylor were married and divorced twice, with him becoming her fifth and sixth husbands. They also co-starred in six films together and Taylor later admitted that Burton was the great love of her life.
Following the death of her friend Rock Hudson, Taylor became an activist against AIDS, co-founding the American Foundation for AIDS Research and her own Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.She fought against AIDS and for gay rights long before it was fashionable to do so and inspired many younger stars to use their fame for humanitarian purposes.
Her various charity works are thought to have raised more than $270 million to help fight and treat AIDS.
It is impossible to state how big a star Taylor was at her peak. She was the constant subject of tabloid headlines, with her most personal struggles splashed across front pages around the world. She was a trendsetter, a trailblazer and the embodiment of Hollywood glamour.
Now those same front pages are overflowing with tributes to the last great legendary movie star.
Taylor is survived by her four children, 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Monday, March 21, 2011
The gutsiest 'Amazing Race' ever
On last week's episode of "Inscaped" I discussed how unimpressed I was with this season's "The Amazing Race." Well that all changed last night.
After falling way behind the other teams, Kynt and Vyxsin got the luckiest break ever when Phil informed them that they were not eliminated but in fact still racing. They were, however, the victims of a 30 minute penalty, but were still very much in the race when all the teams met up at a train station.
While waiting for the 7 p.m. train, the Globetrotters, the cowboys and Kisha and Jen had a fun, impromptu basketball game, where Flight Time and Big Easy got to show off their cool Globetrotter skills. It was nice to see the teams in this relaxed environment away from the stress of the race. Plus, how great did the cowboys look in those Globetrotter jerseys.
When the train ride ended and the race was once again on, it became clear that "The Amazing Race" I know and love was back. Word quickly spread that a double u-turn was at an upcoming clue box and it sent shockwaves through the teams.
Kynt and Vyxsin, with that penalty looming over their heads, had to get to the double u-turn early, so they could buy themselves some time.
Following a foot race to the clue with Jamie and Cara, Kynt and Vyxsin pulled the ballsiest move ever and u-turned Jamie and Cara right to their face.
It was awesome.
Unfortunately, Jamie and Cara then u-turned the Globetrotters, making them turn around and complete a shockingly easy memorization task, although their nicknames for the historical Chinese characters was hilarious.
All the teams were once again bunched up at the roadblock, which entailed building a giant dinosaur model that perfectly matched the diagram and an architect's standards.
I found it crazy that Jet was the only competitor to frequently check the diagram, this attention to detail led to the cowboys finishing the roadblock first. Their streak continued when they passed Gary and Mallory, (who wisely used the express pass to avoid all the dinosaur drama,) and finished in first place.
Kynt and Vyxsin arrived fourth, but took fifth after their penalty time out. The Globetrotters ended up in seventh place and in an incredible stroke of karma, the evil Jamie and Cara came in last and were eliminated from the race.
I have never been more excited to see a team eliminated as Jamie and Cara represent everything that other countries hate about traveling Americans.
Next week the race heads to India where the contenders are usually separated from the wannabees.
After falling way behind the other teams, Kynt and Vyxsin got the luckiest break ever when Phil informed them that they were not eliminated but in fact still racing. They were, however, the victims of a 30 minute penalty, but were still very much in the race when all the teams met up at a train station.
While waiting for the 7 p.m. train, the Globetrotters, the cowboys and Kisha and Jen had a fun, impromptu basketball game, where Flight Time and Big Easy got to show off their cool Globetrotter skills. It was nice to see the teams in this relaxed environment away from the stress of the race. Plus, how great did the cowboys look in those Globetrotter jerseys.
When the train ride ended and the race was once again on, it became clear that "The Amazing Race" I know and love was back. Word quickly spread that a double u-turn was at an upcoming clue box and it sent shockwaves through the teams.
Kynt and Vyxsin, with that penalty looming over their heads, had to get to the double u-turn early, so they could buy themselves some time.
Following a foot race to the clue with Jamie and Cara, Kynt and Vyxsin pulled the ballsiest move ever and u-turned Jamie and Cara right to their face.
It was awesome.
Unfortunately, Jamie and Cara then u-turned the Globetrotters, making them turn around and complete a shockingly easy memorization task, although their nicknames for the historical Chinese characters was hilarious.
All the teams were once again bunched up at the roadblock, which entailed building a giant dinosaur model that perfectly matched the diagram and an architect's standards.
I found it crazy that Jet was the only competitor to frequently check the diagram, this attention to detail led to the cowboys finishing the roadblock first. Their streak continued when they passed Gary and Mallory, (who wisely used the express pass to avoid all the dinosaur drama,) and finished in first place.
Kynt and Vyxsin arrived fourth, but took fifth after their penalty time out. The Globetrotters ended up in seventh place and in an incredible stroke of karma, the evil Jamie and Cara came in last and were eliminated from the race.
I have never been more excited to see a team eliminated as Jamie and Cara represent everything that other countries hate about traveling Americans.
Next week the race heads to India where the contenders are usually separated from the wannabees.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Greatest clip eeeeever
From the new "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" movie. My niece loved the first one and I must admit, the kid performing the song, Robert Capron, is amazing.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
'V:' Is it too little, too late?
Last night's season (possible series) finale of "V" jammed an entire season worth of plot into one hour. If the show had been this engrossing and action packed from the start, the ratings may have been better.We opened with Erica in bed with Hobbes having a nightmare about Anna. It's nice to see that these two are continuing their affair, even freedom fighters need to relax.
This leads to another Fifth Column hare brained scheme where they give the most important job to the weakest team member. The group fakes Lisa's kidnapping to lure Anna out so they can kill her. Of course the plan fails when Anna cons Lisa and she can't pull the trigger.
This mistake leads to the plan's failure and the death and downfall of most of the team. The Fifth Column is the most inept group of rebels ever. Their plans always fail and generally lead to worse consequences.
Once word spreads about Lisa chickening out, Hobbes disappears and Ryan, who won't leave the ship without his daughter, ends up having his neck snapped by said daughter. Chad is found out by Anna and Erica is taken by a mysterious organization.In the best moment of the show Anna kills Diana while she is addressing all the visitors, turns to Lisa and says, "that's how you kill your mother." Can you imagine Thanksgiving at that house?
Lisa is then given her grandmother's sewer prison and forced to watch as her evil twin has sex with her boyfriend Tyler and then eats him. It was like the producers knew how annoying Tyler had been and saved the most gruesome death for him.
Meanwhile, Erica discovered that her boss and partner were a part of Project Ares, a secret government program hoping to fight the visitors. Or as project leader Lars Tremont (awesome name) subtly put it, "humanity's last hope."Tremont was played by original series star Marc Singer, who while highly publicized, was only in the last two minutes.
The show ended on the cliffhanger of Ryan's super powerful hybrid daughter helping Anna bliss all of humanity, including Jack, thus putting them under her control.
Wow, all that was in one hour. If the producers had spread some of that out they could have made a can't miss show. Now, it's on the bubble leaning towards cancellation.
'Original Songs' help 'Glee' return to form
Amazingly "Glee" has featured two solid episodes in a row, with last week's "Sexy" and last night's "Original Song" reminding fans why they fell in love with New Directions two years ago."Original Song" was all about regionals and the club's quest to write original songs for the competition.
The show opened with Quinn back in mean girl mode, trying to protect her relationship with Finn from his connection to Rachel. This storyline while tiresome provided one of the show's best scenes when Quinn informed Rachel that she had no future with Finn because she was destined to leave and they were meant to stay in Ohio.
Though she could have been a little more tactful, it did give Rachel the heartbreak she needed to write "Get It Right," a great Celine-esque power ballad that Lea Michele belted like nobody's business.
The other highlight was the advancement of the Kurt/Blaine pair, who sung a very sweet duet of "Candles" by Hey Monday and also kissed and made their relationship official.Blaine told Kurt that he was the one he had been waiting for and then they kissed. It was very high school sweet, kudos to the producers for not leaking that scene.
The only part that fell flat was the judges, Kathy Griffin as a Sarah Palin clone, Loretta Devine as a stripper turned nun and of course local news anchor Rod Remington. The scene felt shoehorned in and just didn't work.
Plus, how dare the producers have Loretta Devine on and not have her sing? Can you imagine how great it would be to hear her and Amber Riley sing a duet?
It's a shame that with momentum going strong the show will be in reruns for a few weeks, but hopefully the high quality will continue when it returns.
Nate Dogg 1969-2011
Last night hip hop legend Nate Dogg passed away. Born Nathaniel Hale, Nate Dogg was an essential figure in the west coast hip hop scene.
He was known for singing smooth hooks on songs by Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ludacris, 50 Cent and Tupac. Basically any rap star who released a song in the '90s had to have Nate Dogg on their track. Working with him was like a rite of passage.
His best work was probably on the Warren G classic "Regulate" and in the hilarious Chris Rock film "Head of State," where he was the narrator.
He had suffered strokes in 2007 and 2008 and was still dealing with the after effects. A cause of death hasn't been released yet. Nate Dogg was 41.
He was known for singing smooth hooks on songs by Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ludacris, 50 Cent and Tupac. Basically any rap star who released a song in the '90s had to have Nate Dogg on their track. Working with him was like a rite of passage.
His best work was probably on the Warren G classic "Regulate" and in the hilarious Chris Rock film "Head of State," where he was the narrator.
He had suffered strokes in 2007 and 2008 and was still dealing with the after effects. A cause of death hasn't been released yet. Nate Dogg was 41.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
First five minutes of 'Source Code'
Yahoo Movies has posted the first five minutes of the new Jake Gyllenhaal thriller "Source Code."
In it Gyllenhaal is Army Capt. Colter Stevens (possibly the most ridiculous movie name ever). Stevens is sent back in time to figure out who bombed a Chicago commuter train.
While it's true I have an admitted bias in favor of Gyllenhaal (he's so dreamy), this movie looks really interesting and also stars Vera Farmiga, Jeffrey Wright and Michelle Monaghan.
In it Gyllenhaal is Army Capt. Colter Stevens (possibly the most ridiculous movie name ever). Stevens is sent back in time to figure out who bombed a Chicago commuter train.
While it's true I have an admitted bias in favor of Gyllenhaal (he's so dreamy), this movie looks really interesting and also stars Vera Farmiga, Jeffrey Wright and Michelle Monaghan.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Don't miss 'Battle: Los Angeles' in theaters!
In light of the devastation that is going on in Japan, I almost feel bad for how excited I am to talk about this film.
"Battle: Los Angeles" was one of the surprising stick-out panels for me at Comic Con 2010. The clips that they showed was were intriguing and intense. And of course, in my opinion, you can never go wrong with Aaron Eckhart and Michelle Rodriguez.
The whole experience for this film started off exciting for me considering the premiere of the new trailers for "Super 8" and "Conan the Barbarian". The money for my ticket was already worth it being surprised with these trailers, and already anticipating a panel for "Conan" at Comic Con 2011. I already know that is one panel that I refuse to miss.
But honestly, I did not at all expect this movie to be as good as it is. I hate to even go there, but I actually enjoyed it more than "District 9". Now, because of the type of film that it is, it will never get the recognition that it should receive, but it will definitely win over audiences.
Staff Sargeant Nantz (Eckhart) is ready to retire the Marines after a few tours in Iraq and plenty of rumors that he's got a lot of Marines killed. When a strange meteor shower becomes a alien invasion and major cities all over the world are being attacked, he joins a new platoon with a young 2nd Lieutenant right out of Officer Training. They are sent on a mission into the heart of infested territory of Santa Monica to get out a stranded group of civilians before the Air Force bombs the area.
For me, this movie wasn't about the alien invasion. It was about the Marines. Great characters. Great actors. Great comic relief. Great action. Everything that a well written adventure needs.
There is even a moment that seriously made tears start falling down my face, and no, it wasn't because someone died. Nantz gets in the face of one of the young Marines about the death of his brother. An extremely emotional scene that truly captures what it means to be an American soldier. It got to me a bit, but then again, I was raised in a military family.
I supremely enjoyed this movie, and highly recommend it to everyone. I don't want to give away the end because everyone needs to go see it. I thought the end was perfect. So many of these alien films end in such an unbelievable fashion, but not this one. Because the story is not about the alien invasion, that is not where the film concludes. It's about the characters, and it holds a great conclusion for Nantz and his Marines.
Best movie of the year so far and I have no doubt that it will be on my Top 10 list of 2011 by the end.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Misha Collins and The Random Acts are heading back to Haiti this summer!
For those of you that don't pay as much attention to Twitter and some of the rest of us, Misha Collins, star of "Supernatural" tweeted a video today.
Random Acts, the charity that he created, is going back to Haiti this summer to build a new Community Center, and he is asking people to come with him!!
The first people that raise $5,000 will be joining him, fellow "Supernatural" co-star Matt Cohen, and the rest of The Random Acts team at the end of June this summer to go build!
And yes, I made a donation page and am joining to contest. I have always wanted to participate in this kind of relief work, and finally, here is a great opportunity. So follow this link and GO DONATE!!
And even if I do not reach the goal of $5,000 it is still for a great cause!!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Lack of a clever headline
I really spent most of my day today glued to the television watching what was unfolding in Japan.
And it broke my heart.
Here is this wonderful place I was just at a month ago, basically falling apart.
I guess it's easier to disconnect from things like this when they seem foreign to one self.
It's not to me. It's still fresh in my mind and heart.
Thankfully my friends who live over there are safe and sound, but that can't be said for thousands of other people who are suffering deeply.
We could have done a funny review or a recap of something today, but it really didn't feel right.
Not today.
The thing about the Japanese though, is that they know how to handle themselves and bounce back. That and being awesome.
And it broke my heart.
Here is this wonderful place I was just at a month ago, basically falling apart.
I guess it's easier to disconnect from things like this when they seem foreign to one self.
It's not to me. It's still fresh in my mind and heart.
Thankfully my friends who live over there are safe and sound, but that can't be said for thousands of other people who are suffering deeply.
We could have done a funny review or a recap of something today, but it really didn't feel right.
Not today.
The thing about the Japanese though, is that they know how to handle themselves and bounce back. That and being awesome.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The return of 'Doctor Who'
The moment we've all been waiting not so patiently for has come, "Doctor Who" series six is premiering.BBC America will be showing the season premiere on April 23 at 9 p.m.
Series six marks the first time that "Doctor Who" has filmed in The States, as two episodes were shot on location in Utah. Current companions Amy and Rory will return with sometimes companion River Song.
Showrunner Steven Moffat is being tight-lipped about what to expect this season but it was already announced that James Corden will return as normal guy and former Doctor roommate Craig, while frequent sci-fi guest star Mark Sheppard will make his "Doctor Who" debut.
No word yet on when the show will make its U.K. debut, however that information should come out shortly.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
'Greek' ends on a hopeful note
So, I have to confess that I have been secretly watching "Greek" all this time and last night got a little emotional as the show aired its series finale.
For four years Cappie, Casey, Rusty and the rest of the Cyprus-Rhodes crew have been providing a fun, heart-wrenching and hilarious portrait of college life.
Last night focused on the demolition of the Kappa Tau fraternity house. The gang rallied together for one last caper, hoping to sway a CRU alum into not tearing down the KT house.
Unfortunately things didn't work and it was devastating to see such a central character of the show bulldozed.
However, things did go a little better for Casey and Cappie as he finally graduated (accidentally) and they rode off into the sunset on a unplanned, hopeful road trip.
Rusty grew from the sheltered nerd into the confident new KT president who is now dating Ashleigh. Even Dale finally got a girlfriend and had a happy ending.
"Greek" was never a giant hit, but it always had a loyal following and helped ABC Family find the audience that has made shows like "Pretty Little Liars" and "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" successful.
Since the show has followed these characters through all the ups and downs of college, it was nice to see everyone have such a hopeful ending, because that's how everyone wants to feel when college is over.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Warner Bros. fires Charlie Sheen
We have purposefully stayed away from the Charlie Sheen story, but this is TV news that requires reporting.
Warner Bros. television has officially fired Sheen from "Two and a Half Men." The show has been on the air for eight seasons and is a consistent ratings and money earner for CBS and Warner Bros.
Everyone's wondering if the show can continue without Sheen and the answer is absolutely. While Sheen is treated as the star, the show has always seemed like more of a ensemble.
Jon Cryer and Holland Taylor are TV veterans more than capable of anchoring a comedy and providing the audience stability. However, the real question is whether the show should continue?
It had eight seasons, which is a strong run for a sitcom, it's thriving in syndication and CBS has "The Big Bang Theory" and "How I Met Your Mother" as its comedy anchors. This is the time for the show to make as graceful an exit as possible at this point.
With all the controversy and hoopla surrounding it right now, it seems impossible that anyone would be able to focus on the show and not the behind the scenes shenanigans.
With all the craziness Sheen has caused in recent weeks this decision seemed inevitable. However, this won't be where the story ends, as Sheen has promised to sue Warner Bros. and CBS, and no doubt film it all.
Warner Bros. television has officially fired Sheen from "Two and a Half Men." The show has been on the air for eight seasons and is a consistent ratings and money earner for CBS and Warner Bros.
Everyone's wondering if the show can continue without Sheen and the answer is absolutely. While Sheen is treated as the star, the show has always seemed like more of a ensemble.
Jon Cryer and Holland Taylor are TV veterans more than capable of anchoring a comedy and providing the audience stability. However, the real question is whether the show should continue?
It had eight seasons, which is a strong run for a sitcom, it's thriving in syndication and CBS has "The Big Bang Theory" and "How I Met Your Mother" as its comedy anchors. This is the time for the show to make as graceful an exit as possible at this point.
With all the controversy and hoopla surrounding it right now, it seems impossible that anyone would be able to focus on the show and not the behind the scenes shenanigans.
With all the craziness Sheen has caused in recent weeks this decision seemed inevitable. However, this won't be where the story ends, as Sheen has promised to sue Warner Bros. and CBS, and no doubt film it all.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
See this movie! (in a nutshell)
Saw "Take Me Home Tonight" this afternoon and loved, loved it.
It's getting a bad rap for some reason and that's just too bad.
Full review on this week's show, but for now check out this music video featuring the stars of the film hitting up almost every classic '80s movie moments.
Not a giant fan of the cover, but still...
Best part of all is at 3:19-3:20, don't drink anything during that portion or you'll spit all over the monitor:
It's getting a bad rap for some reason and that's just too bad.
Full review on this week's show, but for now check out this music video featuring the stars of the film hitting up almost every classic '80s movie moments.
Not a giant fan of the cover, but still...
Best part of all is at 3:19-3:20, don't drink anything during that portion or you'll spit all over the monitor:
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Jimmy Fallon and Brian Willams on Wisconsin
"Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" has become one of my favorite shows. His interviews and comedy sketches are hilarious and set him apart from the rest of the late night talk shows.
One of his best recurring skits is when he "Slow Jams the News" with Brian Williams. I love Williams for not taking himself too seriously.
In the most recent version, the topic was the ongoing union battle in Wisconsin. Watch, enjoy and become an instant fan.
One of his best recurring skits is when he "Slow Jams the News" with Brian Williams. I love Williams for not taking himself too seriously.
In the most recent version, the topic was the ongoing union battle in Wisconsin. Watch, enjoy and become an instant fan.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Mini-review: 'Marvel vs. Capcom 3'
Like with the Chris Jericho book, let me start by saying I love this franchise.
I've loved it since "X-Men vs. Street Fighter" way back in 1996!
Basically it takes two very popular franchises in themselves and has the characters fight each other. Players choose who they want to play and have at it.
Many people, myself included, will say that "Marvel vs. Capcom 2" is the best of the bunch. I even have the game on my Playstation 3 (it was only $10!).
Sad to say that "Marvel vs. Capcom 2" is still the best game of the franchise.
That's not to say "Marvel vs. Capcom 3" isn't good, but after waiting 10 years, nothing can make up for all the anticipation.
There is a loosely thrown together plot (I think), shown through cutscene videos. Heroes from each side fighting each other, like Deadpool and Dante and Chris Redfield and the Hulk. Eventually the bad guys are revealed, Dr. Doom/Wesker ("Resident Evil")/Magneto/Super Skrull etc.
I won't spoil the big bad, but he's BIG.
In all there are 36 playable characters on the disc (more to be downloadable). That is nowhere near the 56 on "Marvel vs. Capcom 2."
That is only the start of the problems.
Yes, they probably needed to cut back on characters to make up for the updated graphics, but I'm thinking people would rather have more characters than ultra-slick 3-D graphics.
I know I would.
But, another problem. Most of the characters here are from the previous games. Same exact moves and specials. I noticed that the addition of Jean Grey seems to be Psylocke from the previous games with slightly new stuff.
The new characters do rock though. Deadpool is fun and crazy, Amaterasu (the dog from "Okami") is a lot of fun to play.
Another issue is the controls. I am fully used to the mega popular controls and combos from "Street Fighter," but this game throws those out in favor of easier controls. Which kind of makes me feel like I'm cheating. Super powers are now just one button... crazy.
Without spoiling too much, the endings are also disappointing. They are basically around two drawings with some text.
Seriously.
A few of them are interesting as they merge the two universes. Arthur from "Ghouls and Ghosts" fights Fin Fang Foom, Zero gets some help from the Silver Surfer etc. You can YouTube these clips by the way. Just put the character's name and ending together.
If you can find it at a Redbox like I did, then rent it. But, do not drop $60 plus on it.
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